The man known as Panzerwagen powered to an impressive solo stage win, while Frenchman Tony Gallopin (Lotto-Belisol) snuck into the overall race lead on a dramatic day at the Tour de France. German Tony Martin (Omega Pharma-Quick Step) put his world class time trialing skills to use, escaping for a win at the end of the 170km ride that included six categorized climbs. Meanwhile, Gallopin was part of a chase group that came together about 35km into the stage. The pursuants couldn’t reel Martin in, but built a big enough gap to push the Frenchman into the yellow jersey, which will be extra special on Monday because it’s Bastille Day, France’s version of the Fourth of July. See stage 9 results here.

Tony Gallopin sheds tears of joy after becoming the first Frenchman to wear the yellow jersey at this year’s Tour de France. Photo by Graham Watson

GC leader Vincenzo Nibali did the math and had no problem letting someone else take over the race lead — for now. Photo by Graham Watson

The Astana team was given somewhat of a break, after team leader Vincenzo Nibali opted to let the yellow jersey slip away for a day. Photo by Graham Watson

Tony Martin initially had company as he broke away from the field early in the stage. But the German soon dropped Italian Alessandro De Marchi (Cannondale) and rode to the finish alone. Photo by Graham Watson

No shortage of great scenery. Photo by Graham Watson

Running alongside racers, a tradition that never seems to get old. Photo by Graham Watson

With team leader Chris Froome out of the race, Team Sky’s Richie Porte has picked up the mantle of GC rider. Photo by Graham Watson

Tony Martin wasn’t afraid to take a few risks during his mad dash to the finish. Photo by Graham Watson

STAGE 9 GALLERY

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Tony Martin wasn’t afraid to take a few risks during his mad dash to the finish. Photo by Graham Watson

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